I’m afraid of the dentist, I haven’t been in years!

5 Reasons You Shouldn’t Fear the Dentist

So many people are scared to go to the dentist, especially if they haven’t been in a long time. However, there is nothing scary about going to the dentist.

In fact, check out these five reasons not to fear going to a dentist:

1. Dentists Can Do So Much

Not only do dentists want to ensure that you have a healthy smile, but they also want to make sure you have a beautiful smile. Many general dentists nowadays offer cosmetic services. Not only can your dentist suggest treatments like fillings, root canal therapy, etc., but they can also suggest ways to make your smile look perfect with veneers, crowns, bridges and dental implants.

2. Cleanings Prevent Pain

Cleanings can be painful sometimes. If you don’t floss regularly, your gums may bleed when the hygienist flosses your teeth. If you have sensitive teeth, the cold water may hurt. However, cleanings prevent more severe, serious pain, such as cavities and infections. To reduce the pain of cleanings, make sure you floss at home, and ask your dentist about toothpaste for sensitive teeth. You can also take over-the-counter pain medication before your visit.

3. Novocain Will Numb the Pain

If the dentist does need to perform a treatment that may cause pain, Novocain will be used to numb the area. You don’t need to be scared because the entire area is numb while you are treated. Some people fear the dentist because they underwent a filling or root canal therapy, and they didn’t receive enough Novocain. This isn’t normal. If you do experience pain during the treatment, tell your dentist. They will stop and apply more Novocain until you are completely numb.

4. Dental Treatments Relieve Pain

If you’re in pain because of a cavity, fracture, infection, etc., you should be jumping at the chance to go see your dentist. Many people associate the pain of a problem like an infection with the dentist, but the dentist is fixing the problem, not making it worse. Therefore, even if you experience some pain after the treatment because the area is tender, it pales in comparison to the pain you experienced before, and quickly, the pain will completely leave.

5. Sedation Is Available

If you are still nervous about going to the dentist, ask about sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry helps keep you relaxed during the treatment. You are awake during the procedure, but you don’t register every little thing the dentist is doing, which makes it easy to pretend you are somewhere else. There are three types of sedation: inhalation, oral pill and IV conscious. You may become so drowsy and relaxed you fall asleep. If you choose oral pill or IV conscious sedation, you’ll need a ride home.

Don’t let your teeth decay because you’re scared of going to the dentist. Just like your doctor, the dentist doesn’t want you to be in pain. Landmark Dental legitimately cares about your oral health; we’ll do all that we can to make your mouth healthy and beautiful. For more information, or if you have questions, contact Landmark Dental Group today.